Artists, rescuers rally for pets at Art 4 Paws
This metallic artwork, dubbed “Junkyard Dawg,” was among the artwork at the 2012 Art 4 Paws. (RECORD PHOTO/GREGG PARKER)
MADISON – The second annual Art 4 Paws festival will use artwork as the backdrop for helping homeless animals.
Sponsored by Madison Arts Council, Art 4 Paws will be held on April 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Village Green along Front Street in downtown Madison.
“Local shelters and rescue groups will have the opportunity to showcase animals in need of a ‘furever’ home” at this pet adoption and art festival, event coordinator Bliss Bowman said. “Professional photographers and painters will be on hand to capture your pet’s personality in their unique way.”
To-date, vendors signed for the festival include Draws for Paws, I Sew Mean, Sparnett Art, Maria Magos, Elia Peters, Rebecca Smith and Iceworks Shaved Ice.
At Art 4 Paws in 2012, many pet owners brought their dogs (on leash) for others to admire.
Rescue organizations will have volunteers to explain the work of their groups and a few groups will have animals on-site for adoption. Madison Animal Rescue Foundation (MARF), Rescue a Bull, Friends of Rescue, Petlinker, Alabama Boston Terrier Rescue, Decatur Animal Services, along with Peace, Love and Animals, plan to attend Art 4 Paws.
Vendors will not have access to electricity, water and phone lines on the Village Green. Organizers recommend that vendors use canopies in case of inclement weather and secure canopies at all four corners. Booth space will be 10-feet square.
Vendors must bring tents, tables, chairs, floor mat and other supplies, as needed, Bowman said. Setup will begin at 7 a.m., with all vendors ready for the festival by 8:30 a.m.
“Space is limited and will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis,” Bowman said. “Rescue organizations and animal shelters may raise money through solicitation of donations, product sales and services, such as nail trimming and face-painting. Any money raised is yours to keep.”
Madison Arts Council’s mailing address is P.O. Box 1929. For more information, email to info@artsmadison.org or visit artsmadison.org.
